R.H.S. is the name given to a set of 6 symptoms which occur together in patients suffering from herpes zoster oticus (shingles to the inner ear).
The symptoms are:-
Severe pain – heralds the appearance of vesicles and may persist for up to two years.
Post hepatic neuralgia is common and cannot be underestimated it is a common cause of suicide.
A visible rash is usually present and it can extend to the outer ear, mouth, face, neck, and scalp.
Vertigo- May manifest as feelings of the room spinning around the person or the person spinning around the room. It is often so severe that simple eye movements may cause vomiting. My patients describe it to me as the most severe hangover ever experienced.
Deafness- to the affected ear may be complete and may/ may not resolve over time.
Dense facial paralysis to one side of the face with inability to move forehead, close the eye and smile. Eye care is of major concern and there are also problems associated with eating, drinking, and speech. The cosmetic impact should not be under estimated nor the depression of mood which accompanies this loss of normal facial expression.
Tinnitis - sounds generated within the ear without an external source. These sounds may disturb sleep certainly prevent the enjoyment of music and can prove to be the end of a musical career for the professional.
Treatment
Antivirals and Steroids in initial stages.
Diazepam for vertigo and general stress levels.
This is what the research papers say, what a depressing forecast.
Come to the Lindens Clinic and let us help you to minimise the impact and maximise on your recovery potential. We can definitely improve on your facial recovery and help you to tackle those balance and vertigo problems. The home treatment has helped hundreds of people to get the better of their R.H.S.
